1996 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Lexus IS
To start off, 2006 Lexus IS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2006 Lexus IS. (205 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2006 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Lexus IS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Lexus IS. (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2006 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M3 | IS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 91.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1547 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
